An integrative taxonomic characterization of extremophile fish A phanius almiriensis ( T eleostei: C yprinodontiformes) in a hypersaline geothermal system ( NW A natolia)

Key Points

• This research aims to characterize the extremophile fish species Aphanius almiriensis found in a hypersaline geothermal spring.
• Detailed morphological and genetic analyses of Aphanius almiriensis from Tuzla, Çanakkale.
• Measurement of environmental conditions including salinity (61.14 ppt) and temperature (42.7°C).
• Comparison with previous specimens from Greece.
• Genetic analysis shows a minimum p-distance of 3.1% from Aphanius fasciatus in the mitochondrial COI region.
• Morphological traits, such as head profile and scale contact patterns, match A. almiriensis specimens from Greece.
• Majority of individuals exhibit distinct characteristics despite extreme environmental conditions.